Lithium is the third element of the periodic table and is a monovalent cation that shares certain properties with sodium, potassium, and calcium [3,4].

The pharmacology, administration, and side effects of lithium are reviewed here. Choosing a medication (including lithium) to treat acute mania, hypomania, and bipolar depression is discussed separately, as is the choice of medication for maintenance treatment of bipolar disorder, and the epidemiology, clinical manifestations, and diagnosis of bipolar disorder.

To continue reading this article, you must log in with your personal, hospital,
or group practice subscription. For more information or to purchase a personal subscription, click below on
the option that best describes you: